Trim wall protection method for multi-wafer stacking

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure, in some embodiments, relates to a method of forming an integrated chip structure. The method may be performed by forming a plurality of interconnect layers within a first interconnect structure disposed over an upper surface of a first semiconductor substrate. An edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the first interconnect structure and the first semiconductor substrate along a perimeter of the first semiconductor substrate. The edge trimming process results in the first semiconductor substrate having a recessed surface coupled to the upper surface by way of an interior sidewall disposed directly over the first semiconductor substrate. A dielectric protection layer is formed onto a sidewall of the first interconnect structure after performing the edge trimming process.

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/928,497, filed on Oct. 31, 2019, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Multi-dimensional integrated chips are integrated chips that have multiple semiconductor die vertically stacked onto one another and electrically connected by way of through-substrate-vias (TSVs) extending through one or more of the semiconductor die. As lithographic scaling has become increasingly more difficult, multi-dimensional integrated chips have emerged as an attractive alternative to single die integrated chips (ICs). Multi-dimensional integrated chips offer a number of advantages over single die ICs, such as a small footprint, shorter interconnects between adjacent die, higher device density, and the ability to integrate different types of semiconductor die (e.g., memory, logic, MEMs, etc.) into a single integrated chip structure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description when read with the accompanying figures. It is noted that, in accordance with the standard practice in the industry, various features are not drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily increased or reduced for clarity of discussion.

FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate some embodiments of an integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer configured to mitigate damage resulting from an edge trimming process.

FIGS. 2A-2D illustrate cross-sectional views of some embodiments of multi-dimensional integrated chip structures having a dielectric protection layer.

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate cross-sectional views of some additional embodiments of multi-dimensional integrated chip structures having a dielectric protection layer.

FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate cross-sectional views of some embodiments of multi-dimensional integrated chip structures having a hybrid bonding region and a dielectric protection layer.

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of some embodiments of multi-dimensional integrated chip structures having a dielectric bonding region and a dielectric protection layer.

FIGS. 6-7 illustrate cross-sectional views of some embodiments of singulated integrated chip structures having a dielectric protection layer.

FIGS. 8-12B illustrate cross-sectional views of some embodiments of a method of forming an integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer configured to mitigate damage resulting from an edge trimming process.

FIG. 13 illustrates a flow diagram of some embodiments of a method of forming an integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

FIGS. 14-17D illustrate cross-sectional views of some embodiments of a method of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

FIG. 18 illustrates a flow diagram of some embodiments of a method of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

FIGS. 19-22H illustrate cross-sectional views of some additional embodiments of a method of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

FIG. 23 illustrates a flow diagram of some additional embodiments of a method of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

FIGS. 24-27H illustrate cross-sectional views of some additional embodiments of a method of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

FIG. 28 illustrates a flow diagram of some additional embodiments of a method of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following disclosure provides many different embodiments, or examples, for implementing different features of the provided subject matter. Specific examples of components and arrangements are described below to simplify the present disclosure. These are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. For example, the formation of a first feature over or on a second feature in the description that follows may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact, and may also include embodiments in which additional features may be formed between the first and second features, such that the first and second features may not be in direct contact. In addition, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and/or letters in the various examples. This repetition is for the purpose of simplicity and clarity and does not in itself dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and/or configurations discussed.

Further, spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. The spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. The apparatus may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein may likewise be interpreted accordingly.

Multi-dimensional integrated chips are generally formed by stacking a plurality of semiconductor substrates (e.g., semiconductor wafers) onto one another. For example, during a multi-dimensional integrated chip fabrication process a first wafer may be bonded to an overlying second wafer. After the bonding process is finished, the second wafer may be subsequently thinned to reduce a thickness of the second wafer. By thinning the second wafer, through-substrate-vias (TSV) are able to extend through the second wafer to an overlying wafer or bonding structure (e.g., bond pad).

The outer surface of a semiconductor wafer typically has a rounded shape as viewed in a cross-sectional view of the semiconductor wafer. Because of the rounded shape, a thinning process will cause the semiconductor wafer to become thinner along an outer edge, resulting in a sharp outer edge with low mechanical strength. The sharp outer edge can lead to chipping and/or flaking of the wafer during the subsequent processing. To prevent chipping or flaking, an edge trimming process may be performed on a wafer. An edge trimming process is a process by which a mechanical cutting tool uses a saw blade to remove material along an outer edge of a wafer. By removing material along an outer edge of a wafer, the sharp edge with low mechanical strength can be eliminated and chipping and/or flaking can be mitigated.

However, it has been appreciated that the saw blade used during an edge trimming process can cause damage to inter-level dielectric (ILD) layers overlying a wafer. For example, the edge trimming process can exert stresses onto the ILD layers that cause cracks to extend within low-k and/or extreme low-k dielectric materials. The damage caused by an edge trimming process can be aggravated by thermomechanical forces during subsequent fabrication processes (e.g., a wafer thinning process, a wafer bonding process, or the like) leading to die failure and/or reduced yield.

The present disclosure, relates to method of reducing damage from an edge trimming process on one or more inter-level dielectric (ILD) layers overlying a semiconductor substrate. In some embodiments, the method comprises forming one or more ILD layers over a semiconductor substrate. An edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the ILD layers and the semiconductor substrate along a perimeter of the semiconductor substrate. A dielectric protection layer is subsequently formed over sidewalls of one or more ILD layers. The dielectric protection layer protects damaged areas within the one or more ILD layers that may have formed during the edge trimming process, thereby preventing aggravation of damage to the one or more ILD layers during subsequent fabrication processes.

FIGS. 1A-1B illustrate some embodiments of an integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer configured to prevent damage resulting from an edge trimming process.

As shown in cross-sectional view 100 of FIG. 1A, an integrated chip structure comprises an interconnect structure 104 disposed over an upper surface 102 u of a semiconductor substrate 102. The semiconductor substrate 102 comprises an interior sidewall 102 s that couples the upper surface 102 u of the semiconductor substrate 102 to a recessed surface 102 r of the semiconductor substrate 102. The recessed surface 102 r defines a recessed region 112 that surrounds a central region 110 of the semiconductor substrate 102. Within the recessed region 112, the semiconductor substrate 102 has a first thickness that is less than a thickness of the semiconductor substrate 102 within the central region 110. As shown in a top-view 120 of FIG. 1B, the recessed region 112 extends around a perimeter of the semiconductor substrate 102 and extends from the central region 110 to an outermost surface of the semiconductor substrate 102.

Referring again to cross-sectional view 100 of FIG. 1A, a plurality of transistor devices 103 are disposed within the upper surface 102 u of the semiconductor substrate 102. In some embodiments, the semiconductor substrate 102 may comprise a semiconductor wafer and the plurality of transistor devices 103 may be disposed within a plurality of separate die regions, which respectively correspond to an integrated chip die within the semiconductor wafer. An interconnect structure 104 is over the upper surface 102 u of the semiconductor substrate 102. The interconnect structure 104 comprises a plurality of interconnect layers 108 disposed within a dielectric structure 106 comprising one or more dielectric materials. The plurality of interconnect layers 108 are electrically coupled to the plurality of transistor devices 103. In some embodiments, the plurality of interconnect layers 108 may comprise conductive contacts 108 a, interconnect wires 108 b, and/or interconnect vias 108 c. In some embodiments, the plurality of interconnect layers 108 may comprise copper, tungsten, aluminum, and/or the like.

The dielectric structure 106 comprises a plurality of stacked inter-level dielectric (ILD) layers 106 a-106 e surrounding the plurality of interconnect layers 108. In some embodiments (not shown), the plurality of stacked ILD layers 106 a-106 e may be vertically separated from one another by etch stop layers. One or more of the plurality of stacked ILD layers 106 a-106 e may comprise a low-k dielectric layer (i.e., a dielectric layer having a dielectric constant that is less than that of silicon dioxide), an ultra low-k dielectric material, an extreme low-k dielectric material, or the like. In some embodiments, one or more of the plurality of stacked ILD layers 106 a-106 e may have a damaged region 114 arranged along an outermost sidewall 104 s of the interconnect structure 104. The damaged region 114 may be the result of stresses from an edge trimming process performed on the interconnect structure 104 and may define recesses within one or more of the plurality of stacked ILD layers 106 a-106 e. In some embodiments, the damaged region 114 may be within an ILD layer comprising a low-k dielectric material or an extreme low-k dielectric material.

A dielectric protection layer 118 is disposed over the semiconductor substrate 102 and along the outermost sidewall 104 s of the interconnect structure 104. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may also line the recessed surface 102 r, the interior sidewall 102 s of the semiconductor substrate 102, and/or be disposed over the interconnect structure 104. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may further extend to within the recesses 116 within the damaged region 114. Because the dielectric protection layer 118 lines the outermost sidewall 104 s of the interconnect structure 104, the dielectric protection layer 118 covers and/or encapsulates the damaged region 114. By covering and/or encapsulating the damaged region 114 of the interconnect structure 104, the interconnect structure 104 is protected from further damage caused by stresses (e.g., thermal stress, mechanical stress, thermomechanical stress, etc.) of subsequent fabrication processes (e.g., bonding processes, grinding processes, or the like), thereby improving integrated chip yield.

It will be appreciated that in various embodiments the disclosed dielectric protection layer may be located at different locations along a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure. FIGS. 2A-2D illustrate cross-sectional views of various embodiments of a dielectric protection layer on a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a plurality of tiers.

FIG. 2A illustrates a cross-sectional view of some embodiments of a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 200 having a dielectric protection layer.

The multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 200 comprises a first tier 202 a and a second tier 202 b disposed over the first tier 202 a. The first tier 202 a and the second tier 202 b respectively comprise a semiconductor substrate (e.g., a silicon substrate, a germanium substrate, or the like). In some embodiments, the first tier 202 a and/or the second tier 202 b may further comprise an interconnect structure disposed on the semiconductor substrate. In various embodiments, the first tier 202 a may comprise an interposer substrate, one or more TSV, and/or one or more logic devices. In various embodiments, the second tier 202 b may comprise one or more logic devices, a MEMs (micro-electromechanical systems) device, a memory device, an image sensor device (e.g., a photodiode), or the like.

The first tier 202 a has a lower surface 202L and an upper surface 202U. The upper surface 202U is coupled to inner sidewalls 202S1 of the first tier 202 a that are directly over the lower surface 202L. The inner sidewalls 202S1 are further coupled to a recessed surface 202R that defines a recessed region 112. The recessed surface 202R extends from the inner sidewalls 202S1 of the first tier 202 a to outermost sidewalls 202S2 of the first tier 202 a. The second tier 202 b is disposed over the upper surface 202U of the first tier 202 a and is set back from the outermost sidewalls 202S2 of the first tier 202 a by a non-zero distance.

A dielectric protection layer 118 is disposed onto the inner sidewalls 202S1 of the first tier 202 a and onto outermost sidewalls 202S3 of the second tier 202 b. The dielectric protection layer 118 further lines the recessed surface 202R. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may comprise silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, silicon carbide, silicon dioxide, hafnium dioxide, tantalum pentoxide, aluminum oxide, zinc peroxide, or the like. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may have a thickness t₁ that is greater than or equal to approximately 200 angstroms. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may have a first thickness t₁ that is between approximately 200 angstroms and approximately 2000 angstroms.

In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may continuously extend over a top surface 202T of the second tier 202 b, so that the top surface 202T is completely covered by the dielectric protection layer 118. In other embodiments (not shown), the top surface 202T of the second tier 202 b is devoid of the dielectric protection layer 118. In some such embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may have a top surface that is substantially aligned with the top surface 202T of the second tier 202 b or that is below the top surface 202T of the second tier 202 b.

FIG. 2B illustrates a cross-sectional view 204 of some additional embodiments of a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

As shown in cross-sectional view 204 of FIG. 2B, a dielectric protection layer 118 is disposed onto the inner sidewalls 202S1 of the first tier 202 a and onto the outermost sidewalls 202S3 of the second tier 202 b. The recessed surface 202R continuously extends from directly below the dielectric protection layer 118 to laterally past an outermost sidewall of the dielectric protection layer 118.

FIG. 2C illustrates a cross-sectional view 206 of some additional embodiments of a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

As shown in cross-sectional view 206 of FIG. 2C, a dielectric protection layer 118 is disposed onto the inner sidewalls 202S1 of the first tier 202 a and onto the outermost sidewalls 202S3 of the second tier 202 b. The dielectric protection layer 118 continuously extends from the inner sidewalls 202S1 of the first tier 202 a, over the recessed surface 202R and to the outermost sidewalls 202S2 of the first tier 202 a.

FIG. 2D illustrates a cross-sectional view 208 of some additional embodiments of a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

As shown in cross-sectional view 208 of FIG. 2D, a dielectric protection layer 118 extends from the recessed surface 202R, along the inner sidewalls 202S1 of the first tier 202 a and the outermost sidewalls 202S3 of the second tier 202 b, to over the top surface 202T of the second tier 202 b. The dielectric protection layer 118 comprises one or more sidewalls 118 s that define an opening 210 over the top surface 202T of the second tier 202 b. In some embodiments, the one or more sidewalls 118 s are disposed directly over the top surface 202T of the second tier 202 b. In some such embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 extends for a non-zero distance 212 past the outermost sidewalls 202S3 of the second tier 202. In some embodiments, the non-zero distance 212 is greater than approximately 500 angstroms. In some such embodiments, the non-zero distance is in a range of between approximately 500 angstroms and approximately 2 mm. In other embodiments, the non-zero distance 212 may be greater than approximately 100 angstroms, greater than approximately 250 angstroms, greater than approximately 350 angstroms, or greater than approximately 400 angstroms.

FIG. 3A illustrates a cross-sectional view of some additional embodiments of a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 300 having a dielectric protection layer.

The multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 300 comprises a first tier 202 a and a second tier 202 b. The first tier 202 a comprises a first semiconductor substrate 102 a. The second tier 202 b comprises an interconnect structure 104 including a plurality of interconnect layers disposed within a dielectric structure on a front-side of a second semiconductor substrate 102 b. In some embodiments, an upper surface 102 u of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a laterally extends past opposing sides of the second tier 202 b. A plurality of through-substrate-vias (TSVs) 302 extend from the front-side of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b to a back-side of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b. In some embodiments, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a may have a first thickness that is greater than a second thickness of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b.

A dielectric protection layer 118 is disposed on sidewalls of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b and the interconnect structure 104. The dielectric protection layer 118 separates the first semiconductor substrate 102 a from the interconnect structure 104. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may have a top surface 118 t that is substantially aligned with a back-side of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b facing away from the first semiconductor substrate 102 a.

FIG. 3B illustrates a cross-sectional view of some additional embodiments of a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 304 having a dielectric protection layer.

The multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 304 comprises a first tier 202 a and a second tier 202 b. The first tier 202 a comprises a first semiconductor substrate 102 a having a central region 110 surrounded by a recessed region 112. The central region 110 is defined by an upper surface 102 u of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. The recessed region 112 is defined by an interior sidewall 102 s of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and a recessed surface 102 r of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. The second tier 202 b comprises an interconnect structure 104 on a front-side of a second semiconductor substrate 102 b. In some embodiments, the interconnect structure 104 is bonded to the upper surface 102 u by way of a bonding region 308.

In some embodiments, the recessed surface 102 r of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a may have a first width 310. In some embodiments, the first width 310 may less than or equal to approximately 2 microns. In other embodiments, the first width 310 may be in a range of between approximately 5 millimeters (mm) and approximately 20 mm. In yet other embodiments, the first width 310 may be in a range of between approximately 10 mm and approximately 30 mm. In some embodiments, the interior sidewall 102 s of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a may have a first depth 312. In some embodiments, the first depth 312 may greater than or equal to approximately 20 microns.

A dielectric protection layer 118 is disposed on the recessed surface 102 r of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and along the interior sidewall 102 s of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a, the interconnect structure 104, and the second semiconductor substrate 102 b. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may extend over a back-side of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b.

FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate some embodiments of multi-dimension integrated chip structures that comprise a dielectric protection layer and a hybrid bonding interface.

FIG. 4A illustrates a cross-sectional view of some embodiments of a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 400 bonded in a face-to-face configuration with a dielectric protection layer.

The multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 400 comprises a first tier 202 a and a second tier 202 b. The first tier 202 a comprises a first semiconductor substrate 102 a having a central region 110 surrounded by a recessed region 112. A first interconnect structure 104 a is disposed onto the central region 110 of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. The second tier 202 b comprises a second interconnect structure 104 b disposed on a front-side of a second semiconductor substrate 102 b. In some embodiments, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a may have a first thickness that is less than a second thickness of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b.

The first interconnect structure 104 a is bonded to the second interconnect structure 104 b along a hybrid bonding region 402. The hybrid bonding region 402 comprises a first plurality of conductive bond features 404 a disposed within a first dielectric layer 406 a and a second plurality of conductive bond features 404 b disposed within a second dielectric layer 406 b. In some embodiments, the first plurality of conductive bond features 404 a and the second plurality of conductive bond features 404 b may comprise copper, aluminum, or the like. In some embodiments the first dielectric layer 406 a and the second dielectric layer 406 b may comprise an oxide, a nitride, or the like. Along a hybrid interface 408, first plurality of conductive bond features 404 a contact the second plurality of conductive bond features 404 b along a first interface and the first dielectric layer 406 a contacts the second dielectric layer 406 b along a second interface.

A dielectric protection layer 118 is disposed on sidewalls of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a, the first interconnect structure 104 a, the second semiconductor substrate 102 b, the second interconnect structure 104 b, and the hybrid bonding region 402.

FIG. 4B illustrates a cross-sectional view of some additional embodiments of a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 410 bonded in a face-to-face configuration with a dielectric protection layer.

The multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 410 comprises a first dielectric protection layer 118 a disposed on sidewalls of a first semiconductor substrate 102 a and a first interconnect structure 104 a. The first dielectric protection layer 118 a may further extend over a top of the first interconnect structure 104 a. A second dielectric protection layer 118 b is disposed on sidewalls of a second semiconductor substrate 102 b and a second interconnect structure 104 b. The second dielectric protection layer 118 b may further extend over a top of the second interconnect structure 104 b.

The first interconnect structure 104 a is bonded to the second interconnect structure 104 b along a hybrid bonding region 402 disposed between the first dielectric protection layer 118 a and the second dielectric protection layer 118 b. The hybrid bonding region 402 comprises a first plurality of conductive bond features 404 a disposed within a first dielectric layer 406 a and a second plurality of conductive bond features 404 b disposed within a second dielectric layer 406 b. The first plurality of conductive bond features 404 a are coupled to the first interconnect structure 104 a by way of a first conductive feature 405 a extending through the first dielectric protection layer 118 a. The second plurality of conductive bond features 404 b are coupled to the second interconnect structure 104 b by way of a second conductive feature 405 b extending through the second dielectric protection layer 118 b.

In some embodiments, the first dielectric layer 406 a and the second dielectric layer 406 b may extend to outer sidewalls of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a and/or the second dielectric protection layer 118 b. In some such embodiments, outermost sidewalls of the first dielectric layer 406 a and the second dielectric layer 406 b are not cover by the first dielectric protection layer 118 a or the second dielectric protection layer 118 b

FIG. 4C illustrates a cross-sectional view of some additional embodiments of a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 412 bonded in face-to-face and face-to-back configurations with a dielectric protection layer.

The multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 412 comprises a first tier 202 a comprising a first interconnect structure 104 a disposed on a first semiconductor substrate 102 a, a second tier 202 b comprising a second interconnect structure 104 b disposed on a second semiconductor substrate 102 b, and a third tier 202 c comprising a third interconnect structure 104 c disposed on a third semiconductor substrate 102 c.

The first tier 202 a is bonded to the second tier 202 b in a face-to-face configuration, so that the first interconnect structure 104 a and the second interconnect structure 104 b are disposed between a front-side of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and a front-side of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b. In some embodiments, the first interconnect structure 104 a and the second interconnect structure 104 b are bonded together by way of a first hybrid bonding region 402 a.

The second tier 202 b is bonded to the third tier 202 c in a back-to-face configuration, so that the third interconnect structure 104 c is disposed between a back-side of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b and a front-side of the third semiconductor substrate 102 c. In some embodiments, the second semiconductor substrate 102 b and the third interconnect structure 104 c are bonded together by way of a second hybrid bonding region 402 b.

A first dielectric protection layer 118 a covers sidewalls of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a, the first interconnect structure 104 a, the first hybrid bonding region 402 a, the second interconnect structure 104 b, and the second semiconductor substrate 102 b. The first dielectric protection layer 118 a further covers the back-side of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b. A second dielectric protection layer 118 b covers sidewalls of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a, the second hybrid bonding region 402 b, the third interconnect structure 104 c, and the third semiconductor substrate 102 c. The second dielectric protection layer 118 b further covers a back-side of the third semiconductor substrate 102 c.

A first BTSV 414 a extends through the second semiconductor substrate 102 b and the first dielectric protection layer 118 a to electrically couple the second interconnect structure 104 b to the third interconnect structure 104 c. A second BTSV 414 b extends through the third semiconductor substrate 102 c and the second dielectric protection layer 118 b to electrically couple the second interconnect structure 104 b to the third interconnect structure 104 c.

FIG. 4D illustrates a cross-sectional view of some additional embodiments of a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 416 bonded in face-to-face and face-to-back configurations with a dielectric protection layer.

The multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 416 comprises a first tier 202 a, a second tier 202 b, and a third tier 202 c. The first tier 202 a is coupled to the second tier 202 b in a face-to-face configuration by way of a first hybrid bonding region 402 a. The second tier 202 b is coupled to the third tier 202 c in a face-to-back configuration by way of a second hybrid bonding region 402 b. A first dielectric protection layer 118 a covers sidewalls and a horizontally extending surface of the first tier 202 a. A second dielectric protection layer 118 b covers sidewalls and a horizontally extending surface of the second tier 202 b. A third dielectric protection layer 118 c covers sidewalls of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a, the second dielectric protection layer 118 b, the first hybrid bonding region 402 a, the second hybrid bonding region 402 b, and the third tier 202 c.

FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of some additional embodiments of multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 500 comprising a dielectric protection layer and a dielectric bonding interface.

The multi-dimensional integrated chip structure 500 comprises a first tier 202 a, a second tier 202 b, and a third tier 202 c. The first tier 202 a is coupled to the second tier 202 b in a face-to-face configuration by way of a first dielectric bonding region 502 a having two different dielectric structures 504 a-504 b that meet along a first dielectric interface 506 a. The second tier 202 b is coupled to the third tier 202 c in a face-to-back configuration by way of a second dielectric bonding region 502 b having two different dielectric structures 504 c-504 d that meet along a second dielectric interface 506 b. In some embodiments, a third dielectric structure 504 c may surrounding one or more redistribution layers 507 comprising a conductive material. A first dielectric protection layer 118 a covers sidewalls of the first tier 202 a, the second tier 202 b, and the first dielectric bonding region 502 a. A second dielectric protection layer 118 b covers sidewalls of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a, the second dielectric bonding region 502 b, and the third tier 202 c.

A first BTSV 508 a extends through the first dielectric protection layer 118 a, the second tier 202 b, and the first dielectric interface 506 a of the first dielectric bonding region 502 a. The first BTSV 508 a electrically contacts interconnect layers within the first tier 202 a and the second tier 202 b. A second BTSV 508 b extends through the second dielectric protection layer 118 b, the third tier 202 c, and the second dielectric interface 506 b of the second dielectric bonding region 502 b. The second BTSV 508 b electrically contacts interconnect layers within the second tier 202 b and the third tier 202 c.

FIGS. 6-7 illustrate cross-sectional views of some embodiments of singulated (e.g., diced) integrated chip structures having a dielectric protection layer.

FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of some embodiment of a singulated integrated chip structure 600.

The singulated integrated chip structure 600 comprises plurality of integrated chip (IC) die 602 a-602 c stacked onto one another. In some embodiments, the plurality of IC die 602 a-602 c may comprise a first IC die 602 a, a second IC die 602 b, and a third IC die 602 c. The first IC die 602 a, the second IC die 602 b, and the third IC die 602 c respectively comprise an interconnect structure 104 disposed on a semiconductor substrate 102. The first IC die 602 a is bonded to the second IC die 602 b by way of a first hybrid bonding region 402 a, and the second IC die 602 b is bonded to the third IC die 602 c by way of a second hybrid bonding region 402 b. Sidewalls of the first IC die 602 a, the second IC die 602 b, and the third IC die 602 c are substantially aligned along a line that is perpendicular to a top surface of the first IC die 602 a.

A first dielectric protection layer 118 a is disposed between two of the IC die. For example, in some embodiments, the first dielectric protection layer 118 a may be disposed between the second IC die 602 b and the third IC die 602 c. In some embodiments, a second dielectric protection layer 118 b is disposed over the third IC die 602 c. The first dielectric protection layer 118 a and the second dielectric protection layer 118 b have top and bottom surfaces that extend between opposing outermost sidewalls of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a and the second dielectric protection layer 118 b, respectively. In some embodiments, the outermost sidewalls of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a and the second dielectric protection layer 118 b are substantially aligned with outermost sidewalls of the first IC die 602 a, the second IC die 602 b, and the third IC die 602 c. In some such embodiments, the first dielectric protection layer 118 a and the second dielectric protection layer 118 b are not disposed along sidewalls of one or more of the plurality of IC die 602 a-602 c.

In some embodiments, the first IC die 602 a, the second IC die 602 b, and/or the third IC die 602 c may comprise a damaged region 114 disposed along a first side of the singulated integrated chip structure 600. The damaged region 114 may define one or more recesses 116 within a dielectric material. In some such embodiments, an opposing second side of the singulated integrated chip structure 600 may be devoid of a damaged region.

In some embodiments, a passivation structure 604 comprising one or more passivation layers 604 a-604 b is disposed over the second dielectric protection layer 118 b. In some embodiments, one or more redistribution layers 606 may be disposed within the passivation structure 604. The one or more redistribution layers 606 may be configured to electrically couple the plurality of IC die 602 a-602 c to a bond pad 608 disposed on or over the passivation structure 604. In some embodiments, a conductive solder bump 610 is disposed onto the bond pad 608.

FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of some additional embodiment of a singulated integrated chip structure 700.

The singulated integrated chip structure 700 comprises a plurality of integrated chip (IC) die 602 a-602 b stacked onto one another. In some embodiments, the plurality of IC die 602 a-602 b may comprise a first IC die 602 a and a second IC die 602 b. The first IC die 602 a is bonded to a second IC die 602 b by way of a hybrid bonding region 402. A first dielectric protection layer 118 a and a second dielectric protection layer 118 b are disposed on opposing sides of the hybrid bonding region 402. The first dielectric protection layer 118 a separates the hybrid bonding region 402 from the first interconnect structure 104 a. The second dielectric protection layer 118 b separates the hybrid bonding region 402 from the second interconnect structure 104 b.

FIGS. 8-11 illustrate cross-sectional views 800-1100 of some embodiments of a method of forming an integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer. Although FIGS. 8-11 are described in relation to a method, it will be appreciated that the structures disclosed in FIGS. 8-11 are not limited to such a method, but instead may stand alone as structures independent of the method.

As shown in cross-sectional view 800 of FIG. 8, one or more transistor devices 103 are formed within a first semiconductor substrate 102 a. In various embodiments, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a may be any type of semiconductor body (e.g., silicon, SiGe, SOI, etc.), such as a semiconductor wafer and/or one or more die on a wafer, as well as any other type of semiconductor and/or epitaxial layers, associated therewith. In some embodiments, the transistor devices 103 may comprise a transistor formed by depositing a gate dielectric film and a gate electrode film over the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. The gate dielectric film and the gate electrode film are subsequently patterned to form a gate dielectric and a gate electrode. The first semiconductor substrate 102 a may be subsequently implanted to form a source region and a drain region within the first semiconductor substrate 102 a on opposing sides of the gate electrode.

After formation of the transistor devices 103, a first interconnect structure 104 a is formed over an upper surface 102 u of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. The first interconnect structure 104 a comprises a dielectric structure 106 having one or more stacked ILD layers 106 a-106 d respectively surrounding one or more interconnect layers 108. In some embodiments, the first interconnect structure 104 a may be formed by forming an ILD layer over the first semiconductor substrate 102 a, selectively etching the ILD layer (e.g., an oxide, a low-k dielectric, or an ultra low-k dielectric) to define a via hole and/or a trench within the ILD layer, forming a conductive material (e.g., copper, aluminum, etc.) within the via hole and/or a trench to fill the opening, and performing a planarization process (e.g., a chemical mechanical planarization process). In some embodiments, the ILD layer may comprise one or more of silicon dioxide, doped silicon dioxide (e.g., carbon doped silicon dioxide), silicon oxynitride, borosilicate glass (BSG), phosphoric silicate glass (PSG), borophosphosilicate glass (BPSG), fluorinated silicate glass (FSG), or the like.

As shown in cross-sectional view 900 of FIG. 9, an edge trimming process is performed. The edge trimming process removes parts of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first interconnect structure 104 a along a perimeter of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. By removing parts of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a, the edge trimming process defines a central region 110 and a recessed region 112 of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. In some embodiments, the recessed region 112 is defined by a recessed surface coupled to an upper surface 102 u by an interior sidewall 102 s of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a.

In some embodiments, the edge trimming process may be performed by bringing a blade 902 into contact with the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first interconnect structure 104 a along a closed loop that extends along a perimeter of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. The blade 902 has abrasive elements 904 (e.g., diamond particles) bonded to a core 906 having a circular cross-section. The core 906 is configured to rotate around an axis 908, as the abrasive elements 904 are brought into contact with the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first interconnect structure 104 a. During the edge trimming process, the blade 902 exerts stresses on the first interconnect structure 104 a. The stresses can damage the first interconnect structure 104 a and form a damaged region 114 defining one or more recesses 116 within the first interconnect structure 104 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1000 of FIG. 10, a cleaning process may be performed after the edge trimming process is completed. In some embodiments, the cleaning process may comprise a wet cleaning process. In such embodiments, the wet cleaning process may expose the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first interconnect structure 104 a to one or more liquids 1002 (e.g., acetone, DI water, etc.) to remove debris from the edge trimming process. In other embodiments, the cleaning process may comprise a dry cleaning process.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1100 of FIG. 11, an anneal process 1102 may be performed after the cleaning process is completed. The anneal process 1102 is performed to remove unwanted moisture (e.g., moisture from a wet cleaning process) from the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first interconnect structure 104 a. The anneal process may be performed by exposing the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first interconnect structure 104 a to an elevated temperature. In some embodiments, the elevated temperature may be greater than approximately 100° C. In some additional embodiments, the elevated temperature may be greater than approximately 200° C., greater than approximately 300° C., greater than approximately 400° C., or greater than approximately 500° C. In some embodiments, the elevated temperature may be in a range of between approximately 100° C. and approximately 300° C.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1200 of FIG. 12A, a dielectric protection layer 118 is formed along an outermost sidewall 104 s of the first interconnect structure 104 a defined by the edge trimming process. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may also be formed onto a sidewall of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a, along a recessed surface 102 r of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a, and/or within recesses 116 of the damaged region 114.

In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 comprises silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, silicon carbide, silicon dioxide, hafnium dioxide, tantalum pentoxide, aluminum oxide, zinc peroxide, or the like. The dielectric protection layer 118 has a first thickness t₁ along the sidewalls of the first interconnect structure 104 a and a second thickness t₂ directly over the first interconnect structure 104 a. In some embodiments, the first thickness t₁ is greater than or equal to approximately 80% of the second thickness t₂. In some embodiments, the first thickness t₁ is greater than or equal to approximately 90% of the second thickness t₂. In some embodiments, the first thickness t₁ is between approximately 80% and approximately 100% of the second thickness t₂.

In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may be exposed to one or more etchants (e.g., a wet etchant used to remove a photoresist used in patterning a BTSV) during subsequent fabrication processes. Therefore, the dielectric protection layer 118 has to have a thickness and/or density that offers a sufficient resistant to etching to protect the first interconnect structure 104 a from further damage. In some embodiments, the first thickness t₁ of the dielectric protection layer 118 is greater than or equal to approximately 200 Angstroms. A first thickness t₁ that is greater than or equal to approximately 200 Angstroms is able to protect the interconnect structure 104 from subsequent etching processes. In some such embodiments, the first thickness t₁ is in a range of between approximately 200 Angstroms and approximately 2000 Angstroms. In other embodiments, the first thickness t₁ of the dielectric protection layer 118 may be greater than or equal to approximately 500 Angstroms, greater than or equal to approximately 750 Angstroms, or greater than or equal to approximately 1000 Angstroms. Having a first thickness t₁ that is greater than 80% of the second thickness t₂ allows for efficient and cost effective deposition of the dielectric protection layer 118 to the first thickness t₁ that is able to protect the interconnect structure 104 a from further damage (e.g., to a thickness t₁ of greater than 200 Angstroms).

In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may have relatively low wet etch rate to protect the first interconnect structure 104 a during subsequent wet etching processes. For example, in some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may have a wet etch rate of less than approximately 500 Angstroms/minute. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may have a wet etch rate that is less than approximately 350 Å/min when exposed to a wet etchant comprising diluted hydroflouric acid (e.g., at a ratio of 100:1 H₂0 to HF at room temperature).

In some embodiments (shown in cross-sectional view 1200 of FIG. 12A), the dielectric protection layer 118 may be deposited by way of a plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD) process, an atomic layer deposition (ALD) process, a high density plasma chemical vapor deposition (HDP-CVD) process, an integrated profile modulation (IPM) deposition process, or a metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) process. In some such embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may completely cover the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first interconnect structure 104 a.

In other embodiments (shown in cross-sectional view 1202 of FIG. 12B), the dielectric protection layer 118 may be formed by way of a bevel deposition process. In such embodiments the dielectric protection layer 118 is formed over an outer region of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a, but not over a center of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. The resulting dielectric protection layer 118 comprises one or more sidewalls 118 s that define an opening 210 over the first interconnect structure 104 a.

FIG. 13 illustrates a flow diagram of some embodiments of a method 1300 of forming an integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

While the methods disclosed herein (e.g., methods 1300, 1800, 2300, and 2800) are illustrated and described herein as a series of acts or events, it will be appreciated that the illustrated ordering of such acts or events are not to be interpreted in a limiting sense. For example, some acts may occur in different orders and/or concurrently with other acts or events apart from those illustrated and/or described herein. In addition, not all illustrated acts may be required to implement one or more aspects or embodiments of the description herein. Further, one or more of the acts depicted herein may be carried out in one or more separate acts and/or phases.

At 1302, a first interconnect structure is formed over a first semiconductor substrate. FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view 800 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1302.

At 1304, an edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the first semiconductor substrate and the first interconnect structure along a perimeter of the first semiconductor substrate. FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view 900 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1304.

At 1306, a wet cleaning process is performed on the first semiconductor substrate and the first interconnect structure. FIG. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view 1000 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1306.

At 1308, an anneal process is performed on the first semiconductor substrate and the first interconnect structure. FIG. 11 illustrates a cross-sectional view 1100 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1308.

At 1310, a dielectric protection layer is formed along sidewalls of first interconnect structure defined by the edge trimming process. FIG. 12A illustrates a cross-sectional view 1200 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1310. FIG. 12B illustrates a cross-sectional view 1202 of some alternative embodiments corresponding to act 1310.

FIGS. 14-17D illustrate cross-sectional views 1300-1706 of some embodiments of a method of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer. Although FIGS. 13-18H are described in relation to a method, it will be appreciated that the structures disclosed in FIGS. 13-18H are not limited to such a method, but instead may stand alone as structures independent of the method. Furthermore, although the method of FIGS. 14-17D is illustrated as a wafer-to-wafer (W2W) bonding process it will be appreciated that the method may be applied to a chip-to-wafer (C2W) bonding process.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1400 of FIG. 14, one or more transistor devices 103 are formed within a first semiconductor substrate 102 a. A conductive contact 108 a is formed within a first ILD layer 106 a formed over the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. The conductive contact 108 a is coupled to one or more of the transistor devices 103. In some embodiments, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first ILD layer 106 a may be etched to define a TSV opening 1402 extending into the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. In such embodiments, a conductive material may be formed within the TSV opening 1402 followed by a planarization process to define a TSV 302.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1500 of FIG. 15, one or more additional ILD layers 106 b-106 d are formed over the first ILD layer 106 a to define a dielectric structure 106 over the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. One or more interconnect layers 108 are formed within the one or more additional ILD layers 106 b-106 d to define a first interconnect structure 104 a.

FIGS. 16A-16D illustrate some embodiments of an edge trimming process and a bonding process that form a multi-tier semiconductor structure.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1600 of FIG. 16A, an edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first interconnect structure 104 a along a perimeter of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. In some embodiments, the edge trimming process may be performed by bringing a blade 902 into contact with the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first interconnect structure 104 a along a closed loop path.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1602 of FIG. 16B, a dielectric protection layer 118 is formed along sidewalls of the first interconnect structure 104 a defined by the edge trimming process. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may also be formed onto sidewalls of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and/or along a recessed surface of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a defined by the edge trimming process.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1604 of FIG. 16C, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is bonded to a second semiconductor substrate 102 b to form a multi-tier semiconductor structure having a first tier 202 a and a second tier 202 b. In some embodiments, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is bonded to the second semiconductor substrate 102 b by way of the dielectric protection layer 118. In other embodiments (not shown), the first semiconductor substrate 102 a may be bonded to the second semiconductor substrate 102 b by way of an additional bonding region.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1606 of FIG. 16D, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is thinned. In various embodiments, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a may be thinned by etching and/or mechanical grinding a back-side of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a along line 1608. In some embodiments, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a may be thinned by a first grinding process, a subsequent second grinding process, and a chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process. In some embodiments, the first grinding process may achieve a first surface roughness, the second grinding process may achieve a second surface roughness that is less than the first surface roughness, and the CMP process may achieve a third surface roughness that is less than the second surface roughness.

FIGS. 17A-17D illustrate some alternative embodiments of an edge trimming process. and a bonding process that form a multi-tier semiconductor structure

As shown in cross-sectional view 1700 of FIG. 17A, an edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first interconnect structure 104 a along a perimeter of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1702 of FIG. 17B, a first dielectric protection layer 118 a is formed along sidewalls of the first interconnect structure 104 a defined by the edge trimming process. In some embodiments, the first dielectric protection layer 118 a may also be formed onto sidewalls of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and/or along a recessed surface of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a defined by the edge trimming process.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1704 of FIG. 17C, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is bonded to a second semiconductor substrate 102 b to form a multi-tier semiconductor structure having a first tier 202 a and a second tier 202 b. In some embodiments, a second edge trimming process may be performed on the second semiconductor substrate 102 b prior to the bond. In such embodiments, a second dielectric protection layer 118 b may be formed over the second semiconductor substrate 102 b prior to the bonding.

In some embodiments, prior to bonding, one or more conductive features 405 may be formed to extend through the first dielectric protection layer 118 a and the second dielectric protection layer 118 b. In some such embodiments, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is bonded to the second semiconductor substrate 102 b by way of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a and the second dielectric protection layer 118 b. In other embodiments (not shown), the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is bonded to the second semiconductor substrate 102 b by way of a bonding region (e.g., a hybrid bonding region or a dielectric bonding region).

As shown in cross-sectional view 1706 of FIG. 17D, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is thinned along line 1708.

FIG. 18 illustrates a flow diagram of some embodiments of a method 1800 of forming a multi-tier semiconductor structure having a dielectric protection layer.

At 1802, one or more transistor devices are formed within a first semiconductor substrate. FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view 1400 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1802.

At 1804, a through-substrate-via (TSV) is formed within the first semiconductor substrate. FIG. 14 illustrates a cross-sectional view 1400 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1804.

At 1806, a first interconnect structure is formed over the first semiconductor substrate. FIG. 15 illustrates a cross-sectional view 1500 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1806.

At 1808, an edge trimming process is performed on the first interconnect structure and the first semiconductor substrate. FIG. 16A illustrates a cross-sectional view 1600 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1808. FIG. 17A illustrates a cross-sectional view 1700 of some alternative embodiments corresponding to act 1808.

At 1810, a dielectric protection layer is formed along sidewalls of the first interconnect structure. FIG. 16B illustrates a cross-sectional view 1602 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1810. FIG. 17B illustrates a cross-sectional view 1702 of some alternative embodiments corresponding to act 1810.

At 1812, the first semiconductor substrate is bonded to a second semiconductor substrate to form a multi-tier semiconductor structure. FIG. 16C illustrates a cross-sectional view 1604 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1812. FIG. 17C illustrates a cross-sectional view 1704 of some alternative embodiments corresponding to act 1812.

At 1814, the first semiconductor substrate is thinned. FIG. 16D illustrates a cross-sectional view 1606 of some embodiments corresponding to act 1814. FIG. 17D illustrates a cross-sectional view 1706 of some alternative embodiments corresponding to act 1814.

At 1816, the multi-tier semiconductor structure is diced to form a plurality of multi-dimensional integrated chips.

FIGS. 19-22H illustrate cross-sectional views 1900-2216 of some additional embodiments of a method of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer. Although FIGS. 19-22H are described in relation to a method, it will be appreciated that the structures disclosed in FIGS. 19-22H are not limited to such a method, but instead may stand alone as structures independent of the method. Furthermore, although the method of FIGS. 19-22H is illustrated as a wafer-to-wafer (W2W) bonding process it will be appreciated that the method may be applied to a chip-to-wafer (C2W) bonding process.

As shown in cross-sectional view 1900 of FIG. 19, one or more transistor devices 103 are formed within a first semiconductor substrate 102 a. A conductive contact 108 a is formed within a first ILD layer 106 a formed over the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. In some embodiments, a TSV 302 may be subsequently formed within the first semiconductor substrate 102 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2000 of FIG. 20, one or more additional ILD layers 106 b-106 d are formed over the first ILD layer 106 a to define a dielectric structure 106 over the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. One or more interconnect layers 108 are formed within the one or more additional ILD layers 106 b-106 d to define a first interconnect structure 104 a.

FIGS. 21A-21D illustrate cross-sectional views of some embodiments of an edge trimming process and a bonding process that form a multi-tier semiconductor structure.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2100 of FIG. 21A, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is bonded to a second semiconductor substrate 102 b to form a multi-tier semiconductor structure having a first tier 202 a and a second tier 202 b. In some embodiments, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is bonded to the second semiconductor substrate 102 b by way of a bonding region 308.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2102 of FIG. 21B, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is thinned. In various embodiments, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a may be thinned by etching and/or mechanical grinding a back-side of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a along line 2104.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2106 of FIG. 21C, an edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a, the second semiconductor substrate 102 b, and the first interconnect structure 104 a along a perimeter of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2108 of FIG. 21D, a dielectric protection layer 118 is formed along sidewalls of the first interconnect structure 104 a defined by the edge trimming process. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer 118 may also be formed onto sidewalls of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a, sidewalls of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b, and/or along a recessed surface of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b.

FIGS. 22A-22H illustrate some additional embodiments of an edge trimming process and a bonding process that form a multi-tier semiconductor structure.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2200 of FIG. 22A, a first plurality of conductive bond features 404 a are formed within a first dielectric layer 406 a formed over the first interconnect structure 104 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2202 of FIG. 22B, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is bonded to a second semiconductor substrate 102 b to define a multi-tier semiconductor structure comprising a first tier 202 a and a second tier 202 b. In some embodiments, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is bonded to the second semiconductor substrate 102 b by a first hybrid bonding region 402 a formed by bringing the first plurality of conductive bond features 404 a within the first dielectric layer 406 a into contact with a second plurality of conductive bond features 404 b within a second dielectric layer 406 b.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2204 of FIG. 22C, a first edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the multi-tier semiconductor structure along a perimeter of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2206 of FIG. 22D, a first dielectric protection layer 118 a is formed along sidewalls of the first tier 202 a and the second tier 202 b defined by the first edge trimming process. In some embodiments, the first dielectric protection layer 118 a may also be formed onto a recessed surface of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2208 of FIG. 22E, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a may be thinned along line 2210.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2212 of FIG. 22F, a third semiconductor substrate 102 c and a third interconnect structure 104 c are bonded to a second semiconductor substrate 102 b by way of a second hybrid bonding region 402 b to form a third tier 202 c of the multi-tier semiconductor structure.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2214 of FIG. 22G, a second edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the third semiconductor substrate 102 c and the third interconnect structure 104 c. In some embodiments, the second edge trimming process may also remove parts of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2214 of FIG. 22H, a second dielectric protection layer 118 b is formed along sidewalls of the first tier 202 a, the second tier 202 b, and the third tier 202 c defined by the second edge trimming process. After formation of the second dielectric protection layer 118 b, a second thinning process may be performed along line 2218 to reduce a thickness of the third semiconductor substrate 102 c.

FIG. 23 illustrates a flow diagram of some additional embodiments of a method 2300 of forming a multi-tier semiconductor structure having a dielectric protection layer.

At 2302, one or more transistor devices are formed within a first semiconductor substrate. FIG. 19 illustrates a cross-sectional view 1900 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2302.

At 2304, a through-substrate-via (TSV) is formed within the first semiconductor substrate. FIG. 19 illustrates a cross-sectional view 1900 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2304.

At 2306, a first interconnect structure is formed over the first semiconductor substrate. FIG. 20 illustrates a cross-sectional view 2000 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2306.

At 2308, the first semiconductor substrate is bonded to a second semiconductor substrate to define a multi-tier semiconductor structure. FIG. 21A illustrates a cross-sectional view 2100 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2308. FIGS. 22A-22B illustrate cross-sectional views 2200-2202 of some alternative embodiments corresponding to act 2308.

At 2310, a thinning process is performed on the multi-tier semiconductor structure. In some embodiments, the thinning process may be performed prior to acts 2312-2314. FIG. 21B illustrates a cross-sectional view 2102 of some such embodiments. In some embodiments, the thinning process may be performed after to acts 2312-2314. FIG. 22E illustrates a cross-sectional view 2208 of some such embodiments.

At 2312, an edge trimming process is performed on the multi-tier semiconductor structure. FIG. 21C illustrates a cross-sectional view 2102 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2312. FIG. 22C illustrates a cross-sectional view 2204 of some alternative embodiments corresponding to act 2312.

At 2314, a dielectric protection layer is formed along sidewalls of the multi-tier semiconductor structure. FIG. 21D illustrates a cross-sectional view 2108 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2314. FIG. 22D illustrates a cross-sectional view 2206 of some alternative embodiments corresponding to act 2314.

In some embodiments, acts 2308-2314 may be repeated (along line 2316) to form a multi-dimensional semiconductor structure having more than two tiers. FIGS. 22F-22H illustrates cross-sectional views 2212-2216 of some embodiments corresponding to a repeat of acts 2308-2314.

At 2318, the multi-tier semiconductor structure is diced to form a plurality of multi-dimensional integrated chips.

FIGS. 24-27H illustrate cross-sectional views 2400-2716 of some additional embodiments of a method of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer. Although FIGS. 24-27H are described in relation to a method, it will be appreciated that the structures disclosed in FIGS. 24-27H are not limited to such a method, but instead may stand alone as structures independent of the method.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2400 of FIG. 24, one or more transistor devices 103 are formed within a first semiconductor substrate 102 a. A conductive contact 108 a is formed within a first ILD layer 106 a formed over the first semiconductor substrate 102 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2500 of FIG. 25, one or more additional ILD layers 106 b-106 d are formed over the first ILD layer 106 a to define a dielectric structure 106 over the first semiconductor substrate 102 a. One or more interconnect layers 108 are formed within the one or more additional ILD layers 106 b-106 d to define a first interconnect structure 104 a.

FIGS. 26A-26H illustrate cross-sectional views of some embodiments of an edge trimming process and a bonding process that form a multi-tier semiconductor structure.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2600 of FIG. 26A, a first plurality of conductive bond features 404 a are formed within a first dielectric layer 406 a formed over the first interconnect structure 104 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2602 of FIG. 26B, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is bonded to a second semiconductor substrate 102 b to define a multi-tier semiconductor structure comprising a first tier 202 a and a second tier 202 b.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2604 of FIG. 26C, a first edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the first semiconductor substrate 102 a and the first interconnect structure 104 a along a perimeter of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b. In some embodiments, a first thinning process may also be performed to thin the first semiconductor substrate 102 a along line 2606.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2608 of FIG. 26D, a first dielectric protection layer 118 a is formed along sidewalls of the first tier 202 a and the second tier 202 b defined by the first edge trimming process. In some embodiments, the first dielectric protection layer 118 a may also be formed onto a recessed surface of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b.

After formation of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a, a first back-side through substrate via (BTSV) opening 2610 is formed. The first BTSV opening 2610 extends through the first dielectric protection layer 118 a and the first semiconductor substrate 102 a to an interconnect layer within the first interconnect structure 104 a. The first BTSV opening 2610 is subsequently filled with a conductive material to define a first back-side through substrate via (BTSV) 414 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2612 of FIG. 26E, a third semiconductor substrate 102 c and a third interconnect structure 104 c are bonded to a second semiconductor substrate 102 b by way of a second hybrid bonding region 402 b to form a third tier 202 c of the multi-tier semiconductor structure.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2614 of FIG. 26F, a second edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the third semiconductor substrate 102 c and the third interconnect structure 104 c. In some embodiments, the second edge trimming process may also remove parts of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2616 of FIG. 26G, a second thinning process may be performed to thin the third semiconductor substrate 102 c along line 2618.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2620 of FIG. 26H, a second dielectric protection layer 118 b is formed along sidewalls of the first tier 202 a, the second tier 202 b, and the third tier 202 c defined by the edge trimming process. After formation of the second dielectric protection layer 118 b, a second BTSV opening 2622 is formed. The second BTSV opening 2622 extends through the second dielectric protection layer 118 b and the third semiconductor substrate 102 c to an interconnect layer within the third interconnect structure 104 c. The second BTSV opening 2622 is subsequently filled with a conductive material to define a second BTSV 414 b.

FIGS. 27A-27H illustrate some additional embodiments of an edge trimming process and a bonding process that form a multi-tier semiconductor structure.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2700 of FIG. 27A, a first dielectric bonding structure 504 a is formed over the first interconnect structure 104 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2702 of FIG. 27B, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a is bonded to a second semiconductor substrate 102 b by way of a first dielectric bonding region 502 a to define a multi-tier semiconductor structure comprising a first tier 202 a and a second tier 202 b. In some embodiments, the first dielectric bonding structure 504 a may contact a second dielectric bonding structure 504 b along a first dielectric interface 506 a within the first dielectric bonding region 502 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2704 of FIG. 27C, a first edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the multi-tier semiconductor structure along a perimeter of the multi-tier semiconductor structure. In some embodiments, a first thinning process may also be performed to thin the first semiconductor substrate 102 a along line 2706.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2708 of FIG. 27D, a first dielectric protection layer 118 a is formed along sidewalls of the first tier 202 a and the second tier 202 b defined by the first edge trimming process. In some embodiments, the first dielectric protection layer 118 a may also be formed onto a recessed surface of the second semiconductor substrate 102 b.

After formation of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a, a first BTSV opening 2710 is formed. The first BTSV opening 2710 extends through the first dielectric protection layer 118 a, the first semiconductor substrate 102 a, and the first dielectric bonding region 502 a to an interconnect layer within the second interconnect structure 104 b. The first BTSV opening 2710 is subsequently filled with a conductive material to define a first BTSV 508 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2712 of FIG. 27E, a third semiconductor substrate 102 c and a third interconnect structure 104 c are bonded to a second semiconductor substrate 102 b by way of a second dielectric bonding region 502 b to form a third tier 202 c on the multi-tier semiconductor structure.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2714 of FIG. 27F, a second edge trimming process is performed to remove parts of the third semiconductor substrate 102 c and the third interconnect structure 104 c. In some embodiments, the second edge trimming process may also remove parts of the first dielectric protection layer 118 a.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2716 of FIG. 27G, a second thinning process may be performed to thin the third semiconductor substrate 102 c along line 2718.

As shown in cross-sectional view 2720 of FIG. 27H, a second dielectric protection layer 118 b is formed along sidewalls of the first tier 202 a, the second tier 202 b, and the third tier 202 c defined by the edge trimming process. After formation of the second dielectric protection layer 118 b, a second BTSV opening 2722 is formed. The second BTSV opening 2722 extends through the second dielectric protection layer 118 b and the third semiconductor substrate 102 c to an interconnect layer within the third interconnect structure 104 c. The second BTSV opening 2722 is subsequently filled with a conductive material to define a second BTSV 508 b.

FIG. 28 illustrates a flow diagram of some additional embodiments of a method 2800 of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip structure having a dielectric protection layer.

At 2802, one or more transistor devices are formed within a first semiconductor substrate. FIG. 24 illustrates a cross-sectional view 2400 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2802.

At 2804, a first interconnect structure is formed over the first semiconductor substrate. FIG. 25 illustrates a cross-sectional view 2500 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2804.

At 2806, the first semiconductor substrate is bonded to an additional semiconductor substrate to define a multi-tier semiconductor structure. FIGS. 26A-26B illustrate cross-sectional views of some embodiments corresponding to act 2806. FIGS. 27A-27B illustrate cross-sectional views of some alternative embodiments corresponding to act 2806.

At 2808, a thinning process is performed on the multi-tier semiconductor structure. FIG. 26C illustrates a cross-sectional view 2604 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2808. FIG. 27C illustrates a cross-sectional view 2704 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2808.

At 2810, an edge trimming process is performed on the multi-tier semiconductor structure. FIG. 26C illustrates a cross-sectional view 2604 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2810. FIG. 27C illustrates a cross-sectional view 2704 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2810.

At 2812, a dielectric protection layer is formed along sidewalls of the multi-tier semiconductor structure. FIG. 26D illustrates a cross-sectional view 2608 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2812. FIG. 27D illustrates a cross-sectional view 2708 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2812.

At 2814, a BTSV is formed through the dielectric protection layer. FIG. 26D illustrates a cross-sectional view 2608 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2814. FIG. 27D illustrates a cross-sectional view 2708 of some embodiments corresponding to act 2814.

In some embodiments, acts 2806-2814 may be repeated (along line 2816) to form a multi-dimensional chip having more than two stacked wafers. FIGS. 26E-26H illustrates cross-sectional views of some embodiments corresponding to a repeat of acts 2806-2814. FIGS. 27E-27H illustrates cross-sectional views of some embodiments corresponding to a repeat of acts 2806-2814.

At 2818, the multi-tier semiconductor structure is diced to form a plurality of multi-dimensional integrated chips.

Accordingly, in some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to method of reducing damage to one or more inter-level dielectric (ILD) layers overlying a substrate during an edge trimming process by forming a dielectric protection layer along sidewalls of the one or more ILD layers after the edge trimming process.

In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to method of forming an integrated chip structure. The method includes forming a plurality of interconnect layers within a first interconnect structure disposed over an upper surface of a first semiconductor substrate; performing an edge trimming process to remove parts of the first interconnect structure and the first semiconductor substrate along a perimeter of the first semiconductor substrate, the edge trimming process resulting in the first semiconductor substrate having a recessed surface coupled to the upper surface by way of an interior sidewall disposed directly over the first semiconductor substrate; and forming a dielectric protection layer onto a sidewall of the first interconnect structure after performing the edge trimming process. In some embodiments, the method may further include bonding the first semiconductor substrate to a second semiconductor substrate; and reducing a thickness of the first semiconductor substrate after bonding the first semiconductor substrate to the second semiconductor substrate. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer is formed onto sidewalls of the first interconnect structure prior to reducing the thickness of the first semiconductor substrate. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer is formed onto sidewalls of the first interconnect structure after reducing the thickness of the first semiconductor substrate. In some embodiments, the method may further include performing a second edge trimming process on the second semiconductor substrate prior to bonding the first semiconductor substrate to the second semiconductor substrate. In some embodiments, the method may further include bonding a third semiconductor substrate to the second semiconductor substrate after forming the dielectric protection layer onto the sidewall of the first interconnect structure; performing a second edge trimming process on the third semiconductor substrate; and forming a second dielectric protection layer on the dielectric protection layer and onto sidewalls of the third semiconductor substrate. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer is directly between the first semiconductor substrate and the second semiconductor substrate. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer includes silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, silicon carbide, silicon dioxide, hafnium dioxide, tantalum pentoxide, aluminum oxide, or zinc peroxide. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer has a thickness that is greater than or equal to approximately 200 Angstroms. In some embodiments, the edge trimming process damages one or more dielectric materials within the first interconnect structure resulting in recesses with a side of the one or more dielectric materials; and the dielectric protection layer is formed within the recesses. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer is deposited by way of a bevel deposition process. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer has a first thickness along the sidewall of the first interconnect structure that is between approximately 80% and approximately 100% of a second thickness of the dielectric protection layer directly over the first interconnect structure.

In other embodiments, the present disclosure relates to method of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip. The method includes forming a plurality of interconnect layers within a dielectric structure over an upper surface of a first substrate; bonding the first substrate to a second substrate, wherein the dielectric structure is between the first substrate and the second substrate after bonding; performing an edge trimming process that removes parts of the dielectric structure and the first substrate along a perimeter of the first substrate; and forming a dielectric protection layer along sidewalls of the dielectric structure and the first substrate after performing the edge trimming process. In some embodiments, the method may further include reducing a thickness of the first substrate, the dielectric protection layer formed onto sidewalls of the dielectric structure prior to reducing the thickness of the first substrate. In some embodiments, the method may further include performing a wet cleaning process after performing the edge trimming process; and performing an anneal process after performing the wet cleaning process and before forming the dielectric protection layer. In some embodiments, the method may further include reducing a thickness of the first substrate, the dielectric protection layer formed onto sidewalls of the dielectric structure after reducing the thickness of the first substrate. In some embodiments, the method may further include bonding a third substrate to the first substrate, the dielectric protection layer disposed directly between the first substrate and the third substrate.

In yet other embodiments, the present disclosure relates to an integrated chip structure. The integrated chip structure includes a first substrate having an upper surface within a central region and a recessed surface within a recessed region surrounding the central region, the recessed surface laterally extending from the central region to an outermost surface of the first substrate and vertically between the upper surface and a lower surface of the first substrate opposing the upper surface; a first plurality of interconnect layers disposed within a first dielectric structure on the upper surface; and a dielectric protection layer over the recessed surface and along a sidewall of the first dielectric structure and along a sidewall of the first substrate. In some embodiments, the dielectric protection layer has a first thickness along the sidewall of the first dielectric structure that is greater than or equal to approximately 80% of a second thickness of the dielectric protection layer over a top surface of the first dielectric structure. In some embodiments, the recessed surface laterally extends past an outermost sidewall of the dielectric protection layer.

The foregoing outlines features of several embodiments so that those skilled in the art may better understand the aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art should appreciate that they may readily use the present disclosure as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures for carrying out the same purposes and/or achieving the same advantages of the embodiments introduced herein. Those skilled in the art should also realize that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that they may make various changes, substitutions, and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. 

1. A method of forming an integrated chip structure, comprising: forming a plurality of interconnect layers within a first interconnect structure disposed over an upper surface of a first semiconductor substrate; performing an edge trimming process to remove parts of the first interconnect structure and the first semiconductor substrate along a perimeter of the first semiconductor substrate, wherein the edge trimming process results in the first semiconductor substrate having a recessed surface coupled to the upper surface by way of an interior sidewall disposed directly over the first semiconductor substrate; and forming a dielectric protection layer onto a sidewall of the first interconnect structure after performing the edge trimming process.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: bonding the first semiconductor substrate to a second semiconductor substrate; and reducing a thickness of the first semiconductor substrate after bonding the first semiconductor substrate to the second semiconductor substrate.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the dielectric protection layer is formed onto the sidewall of the first interconnect structure prior to reducing the thickness of the first semiconductor substrate.
 4. The method of claim 2, wherein the dielectric protection layer is formed onto the sidewall of the first interconnect structure after reducing the thickness of the first semiconductor substrate.
 5. The method of claim 2, further comprising: performing a second edge trimming process on the second semiconductor substrate prior to bonding the first semiconductor substrate to the second semiconductor substrate.
 6. The method of claim 2, further comprising: bonding a third semiconductor substrate to the second semiconductor substrate after forming the dielectric protection layer onto the sidewall of the first interconnect structure; performing a second edge trimming process on the third semiconductor substrate; and forming a second dielectric protection layer on the dielectric protection layer and onto sidewalls of the third semiconductor substrate.
 7. The method of claim 2, wherein the dielectric protection layer is directly between the first semiconductor substrate and the second semiconductor substrate.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the dielectric protection layer comprises silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, silicon carbide, silicon dioxide, hafnium dioxide, tantalum pentoxide, aluminum oxide, or zinc peroxide.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the dielectric protection layer has a thickness that is greater than or equal to approximately 200 Angstroms.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the edge trimming process damages one or more dielectric materials within the first interconnect structure resulting in recesses within a side of the one or more dielectric materials; and wherein the dielectric protection layer is formed within the recesses.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the dielectric protection layer is deposited by way of a bevel deposition process.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the dielectric protection layer has a first thickness along the sidewall of the first interconnect structure that is between approximately 80% and approximately 100% of a second thickness of the dielectric protection layer directly over the first interconnect structure.
 13. A method of forming a multi-dimensional integrated chip, comprising: forming a plurality of interconnect layers within a dielectric structure over an upper surface of a first substrate; bonding the first substrate to a second substrate, wherein the dielectric structure is between the first substrate and the second substrate after bonding; performing an edge trimming process that removes parts of the dielectric structure and the first substrate along a perimeter of the first substrate; and forming a dielectric protection layer along sidewalls of the dielectric structure and the first substrate after performing the edge trimming process.
 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: reducing a thickness of the first substrate, wherein the dielectric protection layer is formed onto the sidewall of the dielectric structure prior to reducing the thickness of the first substrate.
 15. The method of claim 13, further comprising: performing a wet cleaning process after performing the edge trimming process; and performing an anneal process after performing the wet cleaning process and before forming the dielectric protection layer.
 16. The method of claim 13, further comprising: reducing a thickness of the first substrate, wherein the dielectric protection layer is formed onto the sidewall of the dielectric structure after reducing the thickness of the first substrate.
 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: bonding a third substrate to the first substrate, wherein the dielectric protection layer is disposed directly between the first substrate and the third substrate.
 18. An integrated chip structure, comprising: a first substrate having an upper surface within a central region and a recessed surface within a recessed region surrounding the central region, wherein the recessed surface laterally extends from the central region to an outermost surface of the first substrate and is vertically between the upper surface and a lower surface of the first substrate opposing the upper surface; a first plurality of interconnect layers disposed within a first dielectric structure on the upper surface; and a dielectric protection layer over the recessed surface and along a sidewall of the first dielectric structure and along a sidewall of the first substrate.
 19. The integrated chip structure of claim 18, wherein the dielectric protection layer has a first thickness along the sidewall of the first dielectric structure that is greater than or equal to approximately 80% of a second thickness of the dielectric protection layer over a top surface of the first dielectric structure.
 20. The integrated chip structure of claim 18, wherein the recessed surface laterally extends past an outermost sidewall of the dielectric protection layer. 